Bas Lansdorp, Netherlands

At one point, the idea of sending humans to Mars felt like something only governments and science fiction authors could pull off. But then came Mars One—a bold and controversial mission concept that didn’t just imagine a future on the Red Planet, it invited people to be part of it. This week, I speak with the man behind that idea: Bas Lansdorp, founder of Mars One and one of the most recognizable figures in the modern Mars movement.

Bas shares what first ignited his fascination with space, how Mars One evolved from concept to global media phenomenon, and the challenges that came with trying to make the impossible seem possible. We also dig into what caught him off guard, what he wishes he’d done differently, and what role he still hopes to play in humanity’s journey to Mars. Whether you were a Mars One hopeful or just someone who watched from the sidelines, this conversation offers a thoughtful, candid look at one of the most fascinating space efforts of the 21st century.

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